Broderick Ade Hogue, a beloved community member, was biking west on Grand Avenue when a van hit him, resulting in his death two days later. The latest in a series of fatal traffic accidents involving bicyclists instigated bicycle safety advocates to call for better road safety in Chicago.
Seven Bicyclists Have Died in a Traffic Accident in Chicago So Far This Year
The grim result matches last year’s total. According to traffic safety statistics, the death toll for 2019 was five, and in 2018 and 2017, there were six bicyclist deaths. One of the bicyclists killed this year was Kevin Clark, who starred in the popular “School of Rock” movie.
The safety advocates warn that there are spots in the city that are notoriously dangerous for bicycle riders. One of them is Lake Shore Drive, near the place where Hogue, the latest victim, was hit.
The Police Report Says the Accident Was Hogue’s Fault
Police said that the bicycle rider was hit after failing to stop at a red light on Grand Avenue. As a result, he was hit by a 47-year-old woman driving a van. Other bicycle riders understand why Houge acted the way he did.
The traffic at the intersection is very heavy, so they take every chance they get to cross that intersection. In Hogue’s case, the eyewitness says that the intersection was free of cars, so he understands why he didn’t comply with traffic signs. He just wanted to seize the opportunity to cross the road. Bicycle riders are advised to be more careful and use safety equipment like bike helmets.
The City of Chicago Is in a Middle of a Push to Add 100 Miles of Bikeways by the End of 2022
The Chicago Department of Transportation spokesperson said that the city will add or improve 100 miles of bicycle lanes in 2021 and 2022. With this increase, Chicago will have more than 450 miles of bikeways. But, even when driving on bicycle lanes, bicycle riders should be careful and use safety equipment like bike helmets.
